Managing a hybrid workforce is challenging enough, but add to that the logistics of managing your office space and you'll quickly be seeking some support. Hot desk booking software like deskbird provides an easy solution for employees to plan their days at the office. But it also alleviates the admin work on your end of making sure people have the best possible experience when they come in.
I've been researching and reviewing HR solutions for a long time, and I have a good sense of what to look for in a new software. With that knowledge, I've written this in-depth review of deskbird as a hot desking solution. From its core features to its best use case, and even its top alternatives, I've covered it all. So keep reading to discover whether it's the right tool for your team.
Deskbird: Product Overview
Deskbird is a software tool focused on managing hybrid workspaces, specifically designed for companies and teams that handle hot desk booking and meeting space allocation. The software offers a streamlined approach to managing and booking office resources, significantly benefiting users by enhancing flexibility and maximizing workspace utilization. Moreover, it effectively addresses pain points such as desk allocation inefficiency, meeting room booking conflicts, and the challenge of adapting to a hybrid working model. Key features include an easy-to-use interface, real-time availability views, and seamless integration with popular calendar systems.
Pros
- Intuitive Interface: deskbird boasts a user-friendly design. This simplicity enhances user experience, reducing the learning curve for new users.
- Real-Time Availability: Offers real-time desk and room availability. This feature ensures efficient use of office space and reduces booking conflicts.
- Calendar Integration: Strong integration with existing calendar systems. This integration streamlines the booking process, aligning it with users' existing schedules.
Cons
- Limited Customization: Fewer customization options compared to other software. Particularly, this limitation might restrict users from tailoring the system to specific organizational needs.
- Basic Analytics: Provides only basic analytics and reporting. For organizations requiring in-depth data analysis, deskbird might not meet all their needs.
- Scale Limitations: Challenges in handling very large teams or multiple locations. Larger organizations might find the software less capable of meeting their complex requirements.
Expert Opinion
Evaluating deskbird in the context of hybrid workspace software, I find it competently addresses the essential needs of small to medium-sized businesses transitioning to or managing hybrid work models. Its intuitive interface and seamless calendar integration make it an attractive option, particularly for those prioritizing ease of use and immediate booking capabilities. However, in comparison with other hybrid workspace solutions, deskbird may underperform in scalability for larger organizations and depth of analytics and reporting features. Therefore, it's best suited for smaller teams or businesses seeking straightforward, efficient workspace management without the need for advanced customization or detailed reporting. Above all, for those weighing options in hybrid workspace management tools, deskbird emerges as a strong candidate in its niche.
Deskbird: A Deep Dive
Standout Functionalities
1. Desk Availability Visualization: deskbird uniquely offers a clear, visual representation of desk availability. Clearly, this feature allows users to easily see which desks are available or booked at a glance, differentiating it from many other hybrid workspace tools that may not provide such intuitive visual cues.
2. Advanced Booking Filters: deskbird has advanced booking filters. Users can filter desks based on specific amenities or locations within the office, offering a level of detail in the selection that is not commonly found in other software.
3. Personalized Workspace Recommendations: A distinctive feature of deskbird is its ability to suggest workspaces based on user preferences and past bookings. This personalized approach helps users quickly find their preferred spots, a functionality not typically seen in similar software.
Other Key Features
1. Real-time Desk Booking: Users can book desks instantly, seeing real-time availability to avoid double bookings.
2. Meeting Room Management: Manage meeting rooms efficiently, including availability views and booking features, which are particularly useful for coordinating in hybrid environments.
3. Analytics Dashboard: Offers insights into workspace utilization and booking trends, helping managers optimize office space.
4. Mobile App Accessibility: Ensures ease of access and booking on the go, a key feature for dynamic work environments.
5. Integration with Calendars: Syncs with popular calendar apps for streamlined scheduling, standing out for its compatibility with users' existing digital ecosystems.
6. Customizable Floor Plans: Users can view and interact with customizable office floor plans, offering a unique perspective on the physical workspace.
7. Notification System: Automated notifications for booking confirmations and reminders, enhancing communication and efficiency.
8. User-Friendly Interface: Known for its intuitive design, making navigation and booking simple and efficient.
9. Team Management Features: Allows for managing team bookings and understanding team preferences, useful for team leaders and managers.
10. COVID-19 Compliance Tools: Features designed to help offices comply with health and safety regulations, a timely and relevant feature.
Product Specifications
| Desk Booking | Yes |
| Meeting Room Booking | Yes |
| Real-time Availability | Yes |
| Mobile Access | Yes |
| Calendar Integration | Yes |
| Analytics and Reporting | Yes |
| Customizable Floor Plans | Yes |
| Automated Notifications | Yes |
| Multi-Location Support | Yes |
| User Access Levels | Yes |
| Health and Safety Compliance | Yes |
| Visitor Management | No |
| Resource Booking (like projectors, etc.) | No |
| API Access | Yes |
| Third-Party Integrations | Yes |
| Offline Access | No |
| Language Support | Yes |
| Custom Branding | No |
| Employee Directory | Yes |
| Workspace Optimization Tools | Yes |
| Environmental Impact Tracking | No |
| On-premises Deployment | No |
| Scalability for Large Teams | Limited |
| Advanced Security Features | Yes |
| Customer Support | Yes |
Ease Of Use
I find deskbird to have an accessible and straightforward user interface. The onboarding process is smooth, guiding new users effectively. Navigation within the tool is logical and well-organized, making it easy to find and book workspaces. However, some users might find certain aspects like advanced filter usage or the customization of floor plans slightly complex, requiring a bit of a learning curve.
Customer Support
Deskbird's customer support is commendable for its responsiveness and availability of different channels including live chat and email. In addition, they provide ample resources like documentation and webinars. However, some users may find the lack of 24/7 support or the occasional delay in response times during peak hours frustrating.
Software Integrations
Deskbird offers native integrations with popular calendar applications like Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook, enhancing the ease of booking and scheduling. They provide API access, allowing for custom integrations with other systems. Overall, the platform’s capabilities can be extended with various add-ons, though it may not have as wide a range of integrations as some larger, more established platforms.
Deskbird Pricing
Deskbird's pricing is competitive compared to similar tools, offering a balance of features and affordability. They offer different tiers, catering to varying needs:
- Basic Tier: $5/user/month (min 5 seats). Offers fundamental desk booking and analytics features.
- Professional Tier: $10/user/month (min 10 seats). Includes advanced features like calendar integration and customizable floor plans.
- Enterprise Tier: Pricing upon request. Tailored for large organizations with specific requirements.
Some plans may include additional costs like a setup fee or charges for extra features.
Deskbird: Best Use Cases
Who would be a good fit for Deskbird?
Deskbird is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses looking to manage hybrid workspaces efficiently. Its most loyal customers are those who value intuitive software for managing desk and meeting room bookings. The tool works well in environments where quick and easy resource allocation is key, and in industries where flexible working arrangements are common.
Who would be a bad fit for Deskbird?
Deskbird may not be the best fit for very large organizations or those with complex workspace management needs. Customers who require extensive customization, in-depth analytics, and resource booking beyond desks and meeting rooms might find deskbird lacking. It is less suited for industries with rigid workspace requirements or those that don't adhere to a hybrid work model.
Deskbird FAQs
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions you may have about deskbird:
How does deskbird manage space in hybrid workplaces?
Deskbird offers a comprehensive platform for space management in hybrid workplaces. It includes real-time desk booking, meeting room management, and customizable floor plans to efficiently utilize office space.
Can deskbird be integrated into the daily routine of remote workers?
Yes, deskbird seamlessly fits into the daily routine of remote workers. It supports efficient scheduling and office space booking, aiding workers in smoothly transitioning between remote and office work.
Is deskbird a SaaS platform, and how does it support hybrid companies?
Deskbird is indeed a SaaS platform, offering hybrid companies a flexible and scalable solution for managing their workspace. It provides tools for desk booking, and space optimization, and ensures a harmonious blend of remote and in-office work.
How does deskbird assist admins in managing a hybrid workplace?
Deskbird simplifies the role of admins in a hybrid workplace by providing easy-to-use tools for managing desk and room bookings, creating floor plans, and analyzing workspace usage, thereby reducing administrative workload and increasing efficiency.
What features does deskbird offer for employees who work from home?
For employees who work from home, deskbird offers the ability to book office space for days they choose to work on-site. Its calendar integration and mobile app accessibility make it easy to plan and manage their hybrid working schedule.
Does deskbird support the booking of specialized workspaces like standing desks?
Yes, deskbird supports the booking of specialized workspaces, including standing desks. Users can filter and select desks based on specific amenities, ensuring they find a workspace that meets their needs.
How does deskbird enhance the experience of remote work in a hybrid model?
Deskbird enhances the remote work experience in a hybrid model by providing flexibility and control over when and where to work. Its easy-to-use booking system and calendar integrations help remote workers plan their office visits efficiently.
Can deskbird be used for coworking spaces and how does it help users discover available resources?
Deskbird is suitable for coworking spaces, offering tools to manage and book various resources. Its real-time availability feature and intuitive interface help users quickly discover and reserve the spaces they need.
Deskbird Company Overview & History
Deskbird, headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, specializes in hybrid workspace management software, serving companies transitioning to flexible work models. While its ownership details are not widely publicized, the company is known for its commitment to simplifying hybrid work environments. Catering mainly to start-ups and SMEs, deskbird has made significant strides in user growth and software enhancement, positioning itself as a key player in the evolving workspace management sector.
Deskbird Summary: The Bottom Line
In my review, deskbird stands out in the realm of hybrid workspace management. Its unique offering lies in its focus on simplifying your workplace experience, particularly in hybrid settings. Unlike many similar tools, deskbird provides a detailed visualization of desk and room availability, making it easier to manage who is in the office and when. A notable aspect of deskbird is its capability to manage not just desks and meeting rooms, but also other resources like parking spots, a feature less common in comparable software. In addition, the ease with which it integrates into existing systems and its user-friendly interface is particularly commendable. The most noteworthy features include its real-time availability display, advanced booking filters, and personalized workspace recommendations.
Alternatives to Deskbird
If deskbird doesn’t seem like a great fit, or you want to check out a few more options, you should check out our pick of the best hybrid workspace software. I’ve given a quick overview below of a few tools that people often compare with deskbird.
- OfficeSpace: OfficeSpace is often preferred for its robust facility management features, making it ideal for larger organizations needing comprehensive space planning and management tools.
- Condeco: Condeco is frequently chosen for its advanced meeting room booking system and detailed analytics, beneficial for companies seeking in-depth data insights and resource management.
- Robin: Robin stands out for its user experience and design, preferred by companies looking for an intuitive interface and a more engaging way to interact with their office space.
Summary
In summary of this deskbird review, the tool presents itself as a proficient tool in hybrid workspace management, particularly suited for those seeking simplicity and efficiency in managing their office spaces. With features like real-time availability, advanced booking filters, and integration with existing systems, it offers a practical solution for small to medium-sized businesses adapting to flexible work models. If you're considering a tool to streamline your hybrid workspace, deskbird is certainly worth exploring. Overall, I invite you to share your thoughts or write a review based on your experiences with deskbird or similar products, as your insights could greatly benefit others.